THE final countdown to London 2012 began today as the Olympic torch was lit 1,700 miles away at the ­birthplace of the Games.

But the ceremony lost a little of its sparkle as the flame went out before it could be handed over to begin its journey to Britain.

It was swiftly relit, given to the first torchbearer, Greek swimmer Spyros Gianniotis, then to Brit Alex Loukos who carried it 300 metres on the second leg of its relay from ancient Olympia.

The 19-year-old, whose dad is Greek and mum English, later told of his pride.

Pride: Alex with the torch (Image: PA)

Alex, who lives near the Olympic stadium in Stratford, East London, said: “It was emotional. It was moving. It was something I will never forget.

“It was the sort of thing you tell your grandchildren. It is a special thing for me and my family.”

A 15-strong delegation from London 2012, led by Lord Coe, attended the ceremony at the ruins of the Temple of Hera.

They watched as actress Ino Menegaki played the role of a high priestess to light the flame from the rays of the sun, the way it has been done since ancient times.

The Olympic anthem was played and the Olympic flag hoisted. The Union flag was also raised to the strains of God Save the Queen.

On high: Union flag is hoisted high (Image: Reuters)

Lord Coe, chairman of the London Organising Committee, said later: “Sport has enduring and universal appeal, and the timeless Olympic values transcend history and geography... values which, I believe, in these challenging times are more relevant than at any time before, particularly to young people all over the world.”

The torch arrives in Cornwall next Friday and the relay to London begins the foll­­owing morning.

It will pass through 1,019 comm­unities in 70 days, with yachting champ Ben Ainslie the first to carry it on British soil.